Tiffen

Tiffen 86CSKY 86mm SKY 1A Lens Filter UV Protection

4.7 (288 reviews)

An 86mm UV-cutting skylight filter that protects large-diameter lenses while adding subtle warmth to outdoor images.

$107.67*
In Stock on Amazon.com
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Tiffen 86mm SKY 1-A Filter serves a dual purpose for photographers working with large-diameter professional lenses. First, it acts as a permanent protective barrier against the dust, moisture, fingerprints, and accidental contact that can damage or degrade an exposed front element. Second, it absorbs a significant portion of ultraviolet light while adding a subtle pink-warm tint, which counteracts the blue color cast that frequently appears in images shot under open shade, overcast skies, or at high altitudes where UV levels are elevated. The result is clearer, warmer images straight from the camera.

Built using Tiffen's ColorCore technology, the filter glass is laminated between two pieces of optical-quality glass to ensure even color density and accuracy from edge to edge. The metal ring provides a secure mount to any lens with an 86mm filter thread, which is typically found on professional telephoto zoom lenses and cinema-grade optics. Because of its minimal light loss and gentle color effect, this filter is suitable for extended use across a wide range of shooting conditions. For photographers who rely on large, expensive glass and want consistent protection without sacrificing image warmth, the 86mm SKY 1-A is a practical and straightforward solution.

Key Features

Protects your camera or camcorder lens against dust, moisture, fingerprints, scratches and damage.

Can be kept on your camera at all times.

Popular general use filter.

Pink-tinted for added warmth and better colors.

Especially helpful when shooting in outdoor open shade and on overcast days.

Specifications

Filter Size
86mm
Filter Type
SKY 1-A
Function
UV protection and warming effect
Construction
ColorCore technology (laminated between two pieces of optical glass)
Material
Optical glass, metal ring
Effect
Reduces bluish cast, slight warming
Application
Landscape, outdoor, and long-distance photography
Compatibility
Lenses with 86mm filter thread

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Protects expensive large-diameter lenses from scratches, dust, moisture, and fingerprints at all times.
  • ColorCore technology laminated between optical glass ensures consistent color accuracy across the filter surface.
  • Slight warming tint reduces blue casts in open shade and overcast conditions without heavy color distortion.
  • 86mm size fits professional telephoto and cinema lenses that use this less common filter thread.
  • Can remain mounted permanently as a protective element with negligible light loss.

👎 Cons

  • The 86mm size is uncommon, making it harder to find compatible lens caps or stacking filters.
  • The pink warming tint is always present, which may shift colors slightly in scenes where neutral rendition is desired.
  • Standard ring profile may introduce vignetting on wide-angle lenses below approximately 24mm on full frame.
  • Does not include a protective case or pouch at this price point despite the large glass diameter.

Frequently Asked Questions

A SKY 1-A filter absorbs UV light like a standard UV filter but adds a slight pink-warm tint that counteracts the blue cast common in outdoor and shade photography. A plain UV filter is color-neutral.
The 86mm diameter requires a much larger piece of optical glass and a wider metal ring, which increases both material and manufacturing costs compared to common sizes like 52mm or 67mm.
The 86mm measurement refers to the screw-in thread size. Your lens must have an 86mm front filter thread for this filter to attach directly without a step-up ring.
On extremely wide-angle lenses, any filter adds some risk of vignetting. The standard-profile ring on this 86mm filter may darken corners on focal lengths wider than approximately 24mm on full-frame cameras.
Yes, the SKY 1-A is designed for permanent use. It provides continuous lens protection from dust, moisture, and scratches while maintaining image quality with minimal impact on exposure.